May 05, (THEWILL) — A spirited debate in the Senate on Tuesday gave way to significant institutional reforms, as lawmakers adopted stricter eligibility criteria for leadership positions and approved an expanded legislative calendar aimed at boosting productivity.
The session saw a tense exchange between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, over amendments to the Senate Standing Rules with far-reaching implications for future leadership contests.
The controversy centred on revisions to Order 2 (3), (4), and (5), which now stipulate that only senators who have served at least two consecutive terms immediately preceding their nomination, or those who have held principal officer positions in previous assemblies, are eligible to contest for the offices of Senate President and other key leadership roles.
The new provisions also require that contenders for the positions of Senate President and Deputy Senate President must have completed at least one full four-year term, effectively reinforcing a ranking system that prioritises experienced lawmakers and former presiding or principal officers.
Raising a point of order during plenary, Oshiomhole objected to the amendments, warning that they could limit inclusiveness and restrict the democratic rights of lawmakers. He argued that competence, not tenure, should be the primary consideration for leadership selection.
However, Akpabio defended the changes, stressing that the Senate must be guided by rules that ensure stability, continuity, and effective governance.
According to him, the reforms are necessary to strengthen the institution and guarantee that those who emerge as leaders possess adequate legislative experience.
Despite Oshiomhole’s persistent objections, the amendments were passed with overwhelming support, signalling the chamber’s backing for the reform measures.
In a related development, the Senate also approved a major adjustment to its legislative calendar, increasing plenary sittings from three to five days weekly.
Lawmakers will now convene from Monday through Friday, a shift expected to accelerate legislative processes, deepen oversight functions, and improve responsiveness to national issues.
Committee activities have also been restructured, with meetings now scheduled for Fridays between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., a move designed to enhance coordination and efficiency across committees.
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